Compositions and methods for reducing activation of alpha-1 receptors

Abstract

The invention generally relates to compositions and methods for reducing activation of a-1 adrenergic receptors. The compositions comprise highly selective a-2 adrenergic receptor agonists, at low concentrations, such as below 0.05% weight by volume. The compositions preferably comprise brimonidine. The compositions preferably have pH between about 5.5 and about 6.5.

The invention claimed is: 
     
       1. A method of scleral whitening without significant side effects of eye redness and/or rebound hyperemia comprising administering to a patient in need thereof an ocular drop consisting essentially of brimonidine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein said brimonidine is present at a concentration of about 0.05% weight by volume or below. 
     
     
       2. The method of  claim 1 , wherein said brimonidine is present at a concentration between about 0.001% to about 0.025% weight by volume. 
     
     
       3. A method of scleral whitening without significant side effects of eye redness and/or rebound hyperemia comprising topically administering to a patient in need thereof an ocular drop consisting essentially of brimonidine into ocular tissue, wherein pH of said composition is between about 5.5 and about 6.5, wherein said brimonidine concentration is between about 0.001% and about 0.025% weight by volume. 
     
     
       4. The method of  claim 3 , wherein said composition is topically administered within about 24 hours after a Lasik surgery on said patient. 
     
     
       5. A method of scleral whitening without significant side effects of eye redness and/or rebound hyperemia comprising administering to a patient in need thereof brimonidine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein said brimonidine is present at a concentration below about 0.05% weight by volume, wherein pH of said brimonidine is between about 5.5 and about 6.5, wherein said brimonidine is formulated as an ocular drop.